Motorized Trails and Recreation Program

Motorized Trails and Recreation Program is sponsored by Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. This program provides funding for projects related to ATV and/or snowmobile trails and facilities, including planning, land acquisition, development, equipment purchases and educational programs.

Motorized Trails — Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and... Opened/Updated This Week 0 $0 Opened/Updated This Week 0 $0 Opened/Updated This Week 0 $0 This funding opportunity provides financial support for the development, maintenance, and educational initiatives related to motorized trails in Pennsylvania, targeting a wide range of applicants including government agencies, nonprofits, and for-profit entities.

The Pennsylvania Recreational Trails (PRT) program for motorized trail projects is a federally funded grant initiative administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). The funding originates from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), with DCNR acting as the state agency responsible for distribution and oversight within Pennsylvania.

This particular category of PRT funding exclusively supports projects that involve motorized recreation, making it distinct from other recreational trail grants that may focus on non-motorized uses. All applications under this opportunity must pertain specifically to motorized trail activities to be eligible for consideration.

The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support the development, rehabilitation, or maintenance of designated motorized trails and related facilities. Additionally, the grant supports the purchase or lease of equipment used solely for constructing or maintaining motorized land and water trails.

An important component of the program also includes educational projects that aim to promote environmental stewardship and user safety in motorized recreation. This tripartite approach—trail construction and maintenance, equipment acquisition, and education—helps ensure that motorized trail systems in Pennsylvania are both sustainable and safe for users.

The PRT motorized category is open to a broad range of applicants including federal and state agencies, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and for-profit entities. This wide eligibility reflects the program’s intention to promote public-private collaboration in enhancing recreational opportunities.

However, applicants involved in off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding facilities are advised to consult the Requirements for Funding OHV Riding Facilities Policy to ensure compliance before applying. All applicants must possess a valid Non-Procurement Vendor Identification Number and a Unique Entity ID (UEI) in order to complete the application.

Projects that involve land acquisition or donation must adhere to specific appraisal protocols as outlined in DCNR’s Appraisal Policy. This includes obtaining a formal appraisal report in accordance with USPAP guidelines. Additionally, applicants who wish to have project expenses considered retroactively must submit a formal written request for a Waiver of Retroactivity to DCNR’s Central Office.

These stipulations ensure transparency and compliance with state and federal standards throughout the funding process. To aid applicants, DCNR offers a comprehensive suite of resources including tutorial videos, policy guides, and ready-to-go checklists tailored to the three types of eligible motorized projects: trail development, equipment purchase or lease, and educational programs.

These documents offer step-by-step instructions and detailed criteria to help applicants prepare competitive proposals. The resources also clarify design requirements, funding policies, and project evaluation criteria. Applications for the 2026 cycle must be submitted by 4:00 p.

m. on April 30, 2026. While the opening date is not explicitly stated, it is reasonable to assume the opportunity is currently active based on the presence of a firm closing date.

There is no indication that this grant is offered on a rolling basis, but it is categorized as recurring due to its annual structure, with future cycles anticipated based on past patterns. Interested applicants should consult their Regional Advisor before initiating the application to ensure all prerequisites and documentation are in place.

Not specified - Not specified Grants may be used for motorized trail development, rehabilitation, or maintenance; purchase or lease of equipment exclusively for motorized trail construction or upkeep; or educational programming promoting safety and environmental protection related to motorized trail use. Projects must contribute a minimum 20% match of total project costs.

City or township governments For profit organizations other than small businesses Eligible applicants include federal and state agencies, municipalities (such as cities, townships, and counties), nonprofit organizations, and for-profit businesses. Applicants must hold a valid Non-Procurement Vendor Identification Number and Unique Entity ID (UEI).

Additional policies apply for those providing OHV riding facilities, including adherence to specific funding requirement guidelines. Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)